Update on Local Government Reorganisation and Devolution in Kent - March 2025

March update by Cllr Noel Ovenden, Leader of Ashford Borough Council.

"In February the government rejected Kent and Medway’s request to be part of the priority programme for devolution. This decision was a significant disappointment for many, as a Kent Mayoral Combined Authority (MCA) would have enabled greater local decision-making, empowering communities and enhancing public service delivery. 

"However, the government has signalled that further devolution opportunities may arise, although no definitive timetable has been provided. Kent’s Leaders will continue advocating for the alignment of devolution proposals with the implementation of new Unitary Councils, ensuring a coherent and strategic transition for residents.

Government Directive on Local Government Reorganisation

"Following this decision, on 5 February 2025, all councils in Kent received a letter from the Minister for Local Government, Jim McMahon. A copy of this letter, is available on the Gov.uk website and invites Kent Leaders to develop a proposal for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) by 28 November 2025.

"Unlike the previous devolution bid, this initiative specifically seeks to restructure local government to ensure more efficient and high-quality public services. The government has not mandated a fixed model, allowing flexibility for local authorities to determine the most effective structure. However, they expect Kent’s councils to collaborate on a shared vision for local government reform.

Structural Considerations and Challenges

"One of the key questions is how Kent’s local government should be structured. Government indicates a preference for Unitary Councils serving a population of at least 500,000, (although, Ministers have been clear that exceptions could be considered if justified by financial and service stability). 

"With a current Kent and Medway population of approximately 1.9 million, early discussions suggest the possibility of three or four unitary councils. However, no firm decisions have been made on geographical boundaries, so the interim submission does not intend to suggest these. 

"The government has indicated that boundary changes should not be a focus, as these could delay the transition to unitary councils, so it is expected that the existing district boundaries will be used as the building blocks to form the new authorities. 

"Further analysis is required before any recommendations are proposed.

Role of Kent Leaders and Collaborative Work

"The complexity and significance of this process requires ongoing coordination among Kent Leaders and Chief Executives, supported by council officers. 

"As part of the regular collaborative work that takes place across Kent, items to discuss Devolution and LGR have featured as part of the agenda and work has already begun on preparing the interim submission while simultaneously developing the brief for appointing a Strategic Partner to guide the full proposal development.

"Additionally, engagement with residents and other key stakeholders will be a critical part of this process, ensuring communities are informed and involved in shaping the future of local government in Kent.

Next Steps

"Cabinet members will meet to consider and approve any action in relation to the interim plan. Following the 21 March submission, briefings will be scheduled with the public to maintain transparency and engagement throughout the process as this progresses.

"The government has clearly set out their aspirations and as we move forward towards the 28 of November we could see the beginning of a transformative transition for local government in Kent. 

"While the government’s timetable [link to main Devolution webpage] is ambitious and opinions may differ on the best approach, the overarching objective is clear: to create cost-effective, resilient, and high-quality public services that will serve Kent’s communities for generations to come. 

"As we progress, we will continue to draw lessons from successful unitary transitions across the country and work collaboratively to develop the best possible model for our region."

Cllr Noel Ovenden, Leader of Ashford Borough Council